About Us

Chemistry Programs

The Chemistry Department offers two major programs leading to a Bachelor of Science
degree in Chemistry with concentrations in Biochemistry and Chemistry, as well as
several options for earning a minor in Chemistry. Additionally, the department offers
a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Science. Please review the program requirements and course descriptions in the SXU Academic Catalog for more detailed information.

The Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry prepares students for roles as professional
scientists. Students acquire an understanding of scientific concepts and problem solving
techniques, and the ability to integrate and apply these skills in a laboratory setting.
Two distinct or tracks, chemistry and biochemistry, are designed to meet different interests and professional goals.

The Chemistry Track provides students a background in traditional areas of the chemistry curriculum.
This track provides excellent preparation for students who intend to pursue graduate
studies in chemistry, teach at the secondary level or work as chemists in industry
or government.

The Biochemistry Track in the chemistry major provides students with a broad background in chemistry and
an emphasis on biochemistry. It is the track of choice for students who are interested
in living systems at the molecular level. This track provides excellent preparation
for students who intend to pursue graduate study in biochemistry or professional studies
in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy and other health sciences.

The Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Science is designed for students seeking a broad exposure to biological, chemical and physical
sciences. Course selection to meet specific educational goals is made in consultation
with your academic advisor. The requirements for Natural Science majors allow optimal
flexibility in the selection of science courses.

A Chemistry minor complements many majors and pre-professional programs. It is an attractive option
for students with majors in biology or business and provides an excellent background
for students with career goals in medicine or the environment.

The Pre-Professional Program at Saint Xavier University is a four-year baccalaureate program that prepares students
for entrance into medical school in the areas of dentistry, medicine and veterinary
medicine. Although students may choose from a wide variety of majors, most premed
students major in the sciences, such as:

Dentistry

Law

Medicine

Occupational Therapy

Pharmacy

Physical Therapy

Veterinary Medicine

A student must be academically strong in order to succeed in professional school.
Students who plan to apply to professional school will need to fulfill the following
guidelines for success:

High school prerequisites: Students should have a strong high school background in
biology, chemistry and mathematics, and must meet the University's general requirements
for admission.

Practical experience in and direct knowledge of the chosen profession based on extra-curricular
work or volunteer activities in the profession.

Saint Xavier University and the University of Illinois at Chicago Working Together.

The College of Pharmacy at the University of Illinois has approved courses at Saint
Xavier University for its pre-pharmacy requirements for admission to its four-year
doctoral pharmacy program. Although, completion of all course work does not necessarily
guarantee admission to the College of Pharmacy at the University of Illinois.